Has anyone been to Chioggia, near Venice?

We visited Chioggia about 10 years ago. Yes the town is built on canals like Venice but it is a working town (one of the biggest fishing towns in the area) and lacks the charm and quaintness of Venice itself.
If this is your first trip to Venice, and for 3 days only, I would say that it is probably not worth the time.

Should you want a trip out of the city try the nearer islands of Burano, Murano and Torcello. The last is almost deserted and very atmospheric and the mosaics in the Cathedral are wonderful. It is hard to believe that in the 14th century around 20,000 people lived there.

Venice herself has lots to offer and with only three days you may find it rushed to get in what you want.

I agree. Chiogga is a complicated destination in May. Direct boat service from Venice is only from June through September. Otherwise it can take as much as two hours by bus and ferry.

With only three days in Venice, I'd spend the time wandering its neighborhoods, stopping for glasses of wine and snacks at the cichetti bars; and seeing the Accademia, the top of the bell tower at San Gregorio, the Doge's Palace, etc.

If you want to see a small-scale version, go to Burano or Torcello. Doing so, though, occupies a good half-day.

Many thanks to all who replied! Sounds like we'll skip Chioggia and try one of your other suggestions.

If you want a small-scale version of Venice, go to Murano. It's much closer than Burano or Torcello. But with only three days there (and since it appears to be your first time) I recommend staying in Venice proper and checking it out. If you want a patch of greenery, wander down to the public gardens on the far end of the island away from the train station. No tourists at all - only locals.

That sounds nice, Michael. Thanks for your advice!

I agree, skip Chioggia. We spent one night there. See the islands that are closer.

I loved Burano & would definitely suggest it as an alternate day trip to Chioggia if you find yourself wanting to get out of Venice for a while. You don't even have to spend a full day there. You can easily walk around in a few hours & get a nice taste of Burano.